Colombia continues to pay tribute to its great icons of art and music. This time, the turn was for the emblematic Joe Arroyo. Where?
In Colombia, paying tribute to the great references of art and music has become a tradition that spans generations.
The sculptures dedicated to figures such as Shakira, Diomedes Díaz or Sofía Vergara These are just some examples of how the country honors those who have left a legacy in the national culture.
This time, the turn was for one of the most iconic artists of the Caribbean and the world of salsa: Álvaro José Arroyo González, better known as Joe Arroyo.
Remembered for immortal hits like ‘The Rebellion’, ‘Such for Which’, ‘In Barranquilla I Stay’ and Knowing How to Forget, Joe continues to live on in the collective memory. And now, also, in a sculpture that seeks to capture not only his image, but his spirit, his energy and his unmistakable smile.
According to national sources, the tribute is not an imposing structure several meters high, but rather a more intimate piece, made with a surprising level of detail that manages to reflect, almost perfectly, the features and essence of the Cartagena singer.
The work is on display at the headquarters of the Spanish Cooperation in Cartagena, and measures approximately 75 centimeters. It was made by the teacher Yayo, sculptor who has gained recognition for his ability to provide extreme realism to each of his creations.
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The artist explained that the sculpture is inspired by one of Joe Arroyo’s most memorable presentations, the one he gave in 1988 in London, a concert that marked a milestone in his international career.
“She is made of resin; her hair is real hair; the clothing was made and embroidered especially for this piece; the key she carries in her hands is made of wood; and the accessories such as the chain and bracelet are metal. The patent leather shoes were also made of resin, with a metal structure that supports the model,” the sculptor detailed through his social networks, where he has more than a thousand followers.
The result has been so precise that many claim that just looking at it to feel the presence of Joe, with his characteristic smile and that unmistakable posture that accompanied him on stage.
The sculpture reflects even the smallest details: the veins in his arms, the shine of sweat, the edge of the nails, acne scars and even skin texture. Nothing was left to chance.
“Every detail, the sweat, the dry knuckles, the skin, the color, the veins… not to mention the clothes and accessories. A marvel,” wrote one of the Internet users when seeing the piece. Another user commented: “The sweat! Man, you didn’t have to go that far. What a spectacular job. I wish you would make it real size to put it in a square.”
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The comments have not been long in coming
On social networks, the artist Yayo has received dozens of messages of admiration for his work and for the sensitivity with which he managed to immortalize one of the most beloved icons of tropical music. A brief look at the history of Joe Arroyo Joe Arroyo, who passed away in 2011, remains a legend.
His music still sounds in every corner of the Caribbean and in every corner where joy is the flag. Now, with this sculpture, his legacy also becomes tangible: a symbol that allows us to look into the past with pride and at the same time keep the flame of his art alive.
Cartagena, his homeland, pays tribute to him again, showing that the great never die; They just change the scene.
